Procurement Agent

Penn State University • University Park, IL

15d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Penn State Office of Central Procurement team is searching for a Procurement Agent. Central Procurement has a vision to develop and execute sound business and cost-effective Purchasing solutions to enable the teaching, research, and service mission of the University. The Procurement Agent purchases commodities within the assigned category in accordance with University policies and government regulations with purchase approval limits; conducts competitive Request for Proposal or Request for Quotation processes; negotiates with vendors and evaluates vendor performance and compliance; serves as a liaison with University departments and outside organizations; monitors customer satisfaction and solves problems; uses electronic systems to conduct business transactions and compile information; and reviews, evaluates and/or manages contracts. This position offers a flexible work arrangement that combines remote and on-campus work at the University Park campus. Questions related to flexible work should be directed to the hiring manager during the interview process.

Requirements

• Appropriate negotiating skills to achieve optimum price, delivery terms, payment terms, and purchase order terms and deliver best value solutions to the University.
• A high degree of organization and problem-solving skills and the ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment.
• Sound principles of customer satisfaction.
• Bachelor's Degree
• 3+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted

Nice To Haves

• previous experience with professional services is ideal

Responsibilities

• Negotiate with vendors as it relates to price, delivery, payment, contracts and agreements, specifications, and purchase order terms to increase buying power
• Evaluate, review, and approve purchases within the assigned category; previous experience with professional services is ideal
• Monitor vendor performance and compliance, resolve discrepancies, and inspect for quality
• Evaluate suppliers based on the price, quality, and speed of delivery of their products and services
• Analyze price proposals, financial reports, and other information to determine reasonable prices
• Monitor contracts to be sure that vendors and suppliers comply with the terms and conditions of the contract and University policy
• Monitor, document and facilitate product recalls
• Coordinate with the Accounting department as required to resolve questions on suppliers' invoices
• Monitor customer satisfaction through exchanging information and solving problems
• May utilize a variety of electronic systems to manage requisitions, conduct auctions, and manage vendors and/or inventories
• May supervise staff and direct the work of others

Benefits

• Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees